HACKING THROUGH THE VARIOUS STAGES OF PARENTING.

Human beings view parenting as a natural instinct. However, parenthood in many ways is a product of nurture where skills and styles of parenting are inculcated over time. Either way, parents all over the world especially mothers acknowledge it as a very delicate and tasking process.

PREGNANCY.

Parenthood becomes apparent with the onset of pregnancy. At this stage, the life decision to become a parent is made. The basis of this decision lies in a deep evaluation and analysis of one’s financial and social standing. The parents to be must possess the financial muscle to cater for all the new-born’s needs. Psychological preparation must then commence since babies require lots of attention and responsibility.

As the pregnant mother, antenatal healthcare must me attended to ascertain the health of both the mother and the foetus. By attending these clinics, the mother monitors the progress and health of the baby and mitigate against complications. Lastly, a birthing place must be identified and checked out in time before labour sets in.

BIRTH.

The birth of a new-born marks a period of happiness and joy. The time of longing and waiting finally comes to an end. The mother and the baby establish life lasting bonds at this stage. The new-born naturally depends on the mother for all physiological needs. Parents care for the child continually until a certain stage where the baby adjusts and can perform basic tasks for themselves. The child’s needs include warmth, dryness and comfort. Parents must be able to provide these amenities round the clock.

INFANCY.

Babies acclimatize with age. Their bodies start building. The babies can now smile, walk and even begin talking. At this stage, parents begin the work of training children to be independent. Basic lifestyle and societal values become apparent at this point. Children are curious and explorative at this stage. Parents must, therefore, lay down limits and rules of discipline for all around the home. Of course, the father should play the lead role in nurturing various aspects of the child’s life.

ADOLESCENCE.

This is the most unpredictable and delicate stage of parenting. Children change drastically and the permanent transition to adulthood must be handled with care. First, parents must create an enabling home environment with roles and responsibilities. They must insist on accountability and responsibility. Parents appreciate the role of special education, especially on styles of parenting to adopt. These styles range from the involved and demanding tasks to the mere observatory and neglectful techniques.

Special needs education equips adolescents with life skills and competencies to guide them into adulthood. This education makes adolescents understand the nature of the young stage. Once they come to an understanding, they appreciate it as a rite of passage and, therefore, proceed to make life decisions concerning their life goals and personality. Special education in Malaysia culturally demands that adolescents be raised in strict and tightly knit families. In this case, all children are perceived as assets to the community. Therefore, every member of that society plays a role in their development.

In conclusion, parenting is a lifelong process that only ends with death. Even in adulthood, people rely on their parents for guidance and advice.